Hit the road for a "One-Tank Trip" around Southern Ontario.
Adventures worth the drive from the syndicated newspaper/web column by Jim Fox

Welcome

Greetings to the many thousands of readers over the past month from across Canada and the United States, as well as countries including the United Kingdom, Russia, Germany, France, India, Australia, Japan, the Ukraine, Mexico, Romania and the Netherlands.

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Sunday, January 29, 2017

Learn to code, control robots, paint with light, travel through space and visit Canada’s National Parks through high-tech experiences at TIFF Bell Lightbox

TORONTO —
Imagine a world where users control a robotic arm that mimics human
movement, interact with the solar system and space across a circle of 28
iPads, and paint with light while the environment around them begins to
glow.

This is the world of digiPlaySpace, where interactive art,
design, and activities from acclaimed Canadian and international artists
highlight the power of creative technology for kids and those young at
heart. Opening just in time for Family Day, the sixth digiPlaySpace
exhibition runs for an extended nine weeks at TIFF Bell Lightbox, from February 18 to April 23, 2017.

“When the winter months have everyone staying indoors, digiPlaySpace is
an action-packed technology playground that keeps our bodies and minds
active,” said Elizabeth Muskala, Director, Youth Learning and TIFF Kids.
“Moving from one installation to the next, visitors will be able to
play with and learn from a diverse array of new media experiences staged
in a fun and entertaining environment.”

“digiPlaySpace will inspire and teach kids—and adults—about future
technologies and unlock their creative potential,” added Matt
Nish-Lapidus, Co-Curator, digiPlaySpace. “Coding teaches logic and
problem solving skills, and helps to succeed in an increasingly digital
world. At digiPlaySpace, you’ll get hands-on experience with robots,
programming, and basic electronics so you can start creating your own
amazing inventions.”

Saturday, January 28, 2017

It’s a milestone
year as our nation marks the 150th anniversary of Confederation with celebrations
from sea to sea to sea.

Join a nation of flag-wavers
at local, provincial and national events to “celebrate all that makes us who we
are as a country.”

Ottawa and throughout
the National Capital Region is a hotbed of activities and special events, with
a major highlight around Canada Day, July 1.

The party’s here,
says Mayor Jim Watson, adding: “We look forward to seeing the year unfold and
to welcoming residents and visitors for all the great experiences ahead.”

Sky-high dining is
among the 150 special events in Ottawa this year. (Ottawa Tourism photos)

Things got underway on New Year’s Eve with
the lighting of the Ottawa 2017 Cauldron after a First Nations sacred fire
ceremony kindled the flame that has been shared from Ottawa City Hall to
Parliament Hill.

WATERLOO,
Ont. — It may be cold and snowy outside, but there is a near endless
list of activities for families, couples and solo fun in Waterloo Region
this winter. Whether you enjoy cozying up on a cold winter day or
embracing the winter weather, Waterloo has an activity for you.

With some digging, or
shoveling, it is easy to discover something to do any day of the week
during the winter months. Check out these events and you’ll be sure to
be happy to say hello to winter weather.

Cozy, indoor activities:

·Enjoy a cultural afternoon at Waterloo Region Museum where you can avoid the snow outside and expand your knowledge of the arts.
The museum has activities for the whole family, so bring the gang
along. Check out one of the Main Gallery Exhibit, with a variety to
choose from. You can learn more here: http://www.waterlooregionmuseum.com/

Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. — A
unique marketing throwdown meant to stimulate business creativity and
provide exceptional learning opportunities comes to the heart of
Niagara’s wine country this winter.

On February 9-10, 2017, marketing and sales professionals will have the chance to experience Haste & Hustle—
a one-of-a-kind event offering real marketable business skills and the
opportunity to engage and network with other professionals from various
industries.

“From
the cutting edge of marketing to the intersection technology and
consumer experience, Haste & Hustle will feature industry leaders
that will frame the way professionals think about sales, marketing and
business,” says Shauna Arnott of Haste & Hustle. “This event is the
perfect opportunity to boost your business, connect with the best in the
industry and visit the beautiful Niagara Region.”

ST. MARYS, Ontario --With
his election to the National Baseball Hall of Fame,
Montreal Expos legend Tim Raines will become the ninth member of the
exclusive group of players, managers and executives to be inducted into
both the Cooperstown-based shrine and the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame
in St. Marys, Ont.

Jim Fanning (L), Tim Raines

Here's a rundown of the nine members of this exclusive club:

Tim Raines

Born
in Sanford, Fla., Raines was inducted into the Canadian Baseball Hall
of Fame in 2013 and the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2017. In his
23-year big league career, Raines was a seven-time all-star who suited
up for 2,502 contests with the Montreal Expos, Chicago White Sox, New
York Yankees, Oakland A's, Baltimore Orioles and Florida Marlins.

In his
13 seasons with the Expos (1979 to 1990, 2001), Raines set franchise
records in runs (947), stolen bases (635), triples (82), walks (793),
and singles (1,163). He also ranks second in Expos history in batting
average (.301) and hits (1,622). From 1981 to 1987, the fleet-footed
outfielder was selected to play in seven consecutive All-Star games and
was named the MVP of the 1987 Midsummer Classic.

During that same
period, he also won a National League batting title in 1986 and topped
the Senior Circuit in runs twice (1983, 1987) and in stolen bases four
times (1981 to 1984). He finished his career with 808 stolen bases,
which ranks fifth in major league history.

Friday, January 27, 2017

(News Release)One of the country’s most exciting young artists explores Canadian identity through ceramics, video, and soundToronto, ON January 23, 2017 -- To commemorate Canada’s sesquicentennial, the Gardiner Museum has commissioned a multimedia exhibition by one of the country’s most exciting young ceramic artists that both celebrates and questions notions of Canadian identity.

“As we enter the 150th anniversary of Confederation and the Gardiner’s “Year of Canada”, we wanted to recognize the creativity that has helped Canada forge a unique and thoughtful place in the world,” says Kelvin Browne, Gardiner Museum Executive Director and CEO.On display from February 16 to May 21, Janet Macpherson: A Canadian Bestiary conveys a very personal view of Canada that draws on the artist’s own experiences, memories of her Catholic childhood, and a distinct visual language characterized by hybrid animal creatures that stand in for the complexity of human interactions.

Stratford, ON–String Bone Presents!Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar in
concert January 27, 2017 at 8:00 pm at Stratford’s Revival House. Whoa!
Here's a voice that comes along once in a blue moon. Based out of
Toronto, roots ‘n roll Samantha Martinis a five-time Maple Blues Award nominee and in 2016 she was nominated for “Best Female Vocalist” at the Maple Blues Awards presented by the Toronto Blues Society.

As a vocalist, Martin’s gospel-tinged but equally
nostalgic southern soul sound is reminiscent of Marion Williams, Mavis
Staples, Etta James, Tina Turner, Bettye LaVette, Lucinda Williams and,
perhaps most closely, Bonnie Bramlett. As a songwriter, her lyrics
suggest an old soul with wisdom beyond her years.

Samantha Martin has been building a
roots/blues/gospel sound and team with Delta Sugar since 2014. Although
the concert focus will be on Martin as the front woman, this band really
is a team effort and powerful blend. Accompanying Martin's powerful
lead vocals and acoustic guitar are Sherie Marshall and Stacie Tabb
(vocal harmonies) and Mikey McCallum (electric guitar). Together they
pack more punch than a stage full of amps and fearsome guitarists.

Thursday, January 26, 2017

If you love to
cross-country ski or snowshoe, head to Ontario Parks! Nineteen winter
parks have over 450 kilometres of trails to choose from.

Half of all
trails are groomed or track set and many include warm-up shelters and
washrooms. Some parks even offer equipment rentals, skating, and yurt,
cottage or cabin accommodation.

Before heading out, get the latest snow
conditions from the Ontario Parks Ski Report, http://www.ontarioparks.com/skireport/.
If you plan to ski or snowshoe often, consider purchasing a Winter
Daily Vehicle Permit.

HUNTSVILLE,
ON, January 24, 2017 – Deerhurst Resort will be adding lots of laughs
to its line-up of classic Canadian winter experiences with a special
appearance by Brent Butt of Corner Gas fame on February 11th.

Perfectly
timed for a pre-Valentine’s day escape before the Family Day Weekend,
Deerhurst’s Brent Butt Comedy Show package is a great way to break out
of hibernation mode and remember how much fun winter can be outside the
city.

With
his witty, good natured comedy style, Brent Butt has become a Canadian
comic superstar – despite his low key, self-effacing demeanor. Corner
Gas, which he created, wrote, directed and starred in, became Canada’s
#1 comedy show, broadcast in over 26 countries including the US.

Brent
then created another sitcom for CTV called “Hiccups” and also made the
transition to movies with two feature films -the comedic mystery “No
Clue“, and the much anticipated “Corner Gas: The Movie.” Next up is
animated series of Corner Gas. Aside from TV and film production, Brent
continues to tour the country performing stand-up as often as he can.

Guests
of Deerhurst Resort, a Muskoka hallmark just minutes from the town of
Huntsville, can enjoy onsite activities like cross-country skiing,
snowshoe treks, ice-skating, guided snowmobile tours and sleigh rides.

Republic Live, organizers of Boots and Hearts Music Festival,announce headliner Brantley Gilbert, along with Brett Eldredge and Dan + Shay
as part of their 2017 line-up.

The additional performers join
previously announced headliners Keith Urban and Luke Bryan. Now in it’s
sixth year, Canada’s largest country music festival will once again take
place at the custom-designed camping and festival grounds, Burl’s Creek
Event Grounds, in Oro-Medonte from August 10th-13th.

"We are very excited to have Brantley Gilbert headlining Boots and
Hearts for the first time," said Alex Patton, Talent Buyer, Fource
Entertainment. "This summer fans can look forward to never seen before
performances at Boots and Hearts including Keith Urban, Brantley
Gilbert, and Brett Eldredge, all in addition to fan favourites from past
years, Luke Bryan and Dan + Shay.

"We are adding many more incredible
acts to the line-up that we know the Boots and Hearts crowd will go
crazy for. This year’s line-up is definitely one for the books and we
can’t wait to share more with our fans in the coming weeks!"

Stay tuned for further programming updates, including on-site
activations and food offerings. Boots and Hearts 2017 tickets are
currently on-sale at Tier 2 pricing for $249.99 and VIP for $599.99.
Full list of ticket offerings are available here.

Monday, January 23, 2017

Dinosaurs that
roamed the earth millions of years ago are returning to Waterloo Region.

Not exactly the
real, live ones but more than 10 life-sized dinosaur specimens in the North
American premier of Tyrannosaurs – Meet the Family at the Waterloo Region
Museum in Kitchener.

This “blockbuster
exhibit” is in town from Feb. 3 to April 30 and the “innovative, hands-on
immersive experience” was developed by the Australian Museum.

“Come
face-to-face with life-sized dinosaur skeletons, including Scotty, the Tyrannosaurus
rex” said Sean Jasmins, museums’ supervisor of marketing and partnerships.

An exhibition at
the Waterloo Region Museum showcases the newly revised tyrannosaur family tree.
(James Horan, Australian Museum)

As well, meet up
with one of the oldest tyrannosaurs, Guanlong wucaii, the newly discovered
feathery relative of T. rex, he added.

This exhibit
showcases the newly revised tyrannosaur family tree and is designed to provide
a snapshot of dinosaur life and show how this group became the world’s top
predators with their massive skulls, powerful jaws and bone-crunching teeth.

Sunday, January 8, 2017

When it comes to
planning an automotive-themed getaway, all roads lead to Detroit – the “Motor
City.”

Highlighting annual
events in this motor mecca is the world renowned North American International
Auto Show revving up next week.

It attracts more
than 800,000 people over nine days to view 750 vehicles and countless
interactive displays.

Glitzy models
showing off the latest models at the North American International Auto Show Charity
Preview in Detroit. (Jim Fox photo)

While in
town, cruise over to the Henry Ford museum, tour auto baron homes and cap it
off with a stay at Marriott’s Dearborn Inn built by Henry Ford.

The auto
show from Jan. 14 to 22 at the Cobo Center is the place to see “next-generation
automotive products and technologies” as they make their world debuts.

Among those is the
new fifth-generation Lexus flagship sedan said to have an extended “bold new
look with a coupe-like silhouette” and premium rear-wheel drive “for a more
dynamic experience on the road.”

Thursday, January 5, 2017

(St. Catharines, ON) – The 22nd Annual Niagara
Icewine Festival is around the corner and the time is right to plan your January
getaway to Niagara. The 2017 Xerox Icewine Gala marks the 22nd regional
celebration of the truly Canadian icon: Icewine.

What began as a gala event has evolved into three weekends
of globally sought after Icewine experiences. From stunning formal affairs to
outdoor Ice village settings to wineries setting the stage with incredible culinary
and Icewine delights; Niagara is the place to explore your senses.

The 2017 Xerox Icewine Gala

-- Taste the best in culinary and wine; as noted Niagara chefs
prepare Icewine infused delights or create the ultimate Icewine pairing.